Tennis legend criticizes handling of Jannik Sinner’s doping case, points to unfair treatment during the process
Lindsay Davenport criticized the handling of Jannik Sinner’s doping case and pointed to unfair treatment when compared with lower-ranked players.
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Jannik Sinner (Via Imago)
Former American World No. 1 Lindsay Davenport did not hold back in criticizing the way Jannik Sinner’s doping scandal was handled. The issue, which has dominated the headlines in recent weeks, is showing no signs of dying down.
Days before the US Open got underway, the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) announced that Sinner had twice tested positive for the banned anabolic steroid Clostebol in March. The Italian immediately appealed against the mandatory suspension and was cleared after he claimed that the substance entered his body after his physiotherapist, Giacomo Naldi, used Trofodermin, an over-the-counter medication, to heal a cut on his finger.
Three-time Grand Slam champion Davenport stated that she was shocked with the way Sinner’s doping issue was handled. The 48-year-old American questioned the delay in making the details public and the lack of suspension for the US Open champion.
I am honestly shocked. Like most. It seems that we are only now finding out what is happening behind the scenes. I don’t know how he is allowed to play all year. It’s not fair to other players, it’s obvious that not everyone is treated the same. Especially to those who are ranked lower.Lindsey Davenport told Sport Klub
Lindsay Davenport also opined that Sinner’s ability to afford lawyers played a role in the outcome of the case.
Casper Ruud comes to Jannik Sinner’s defense, says Italian did not receive preferential treatment
Ever since news of Jannik Sinner’s failed doping tests and the quick resolution to the case became public, the 23-year-old and the ITIA have faced criticism from several corners. Several past and present players questioned the way the case was handled and many even suggested that Sinner was given preferential treatment. They compared it with others, notably Simona Halep and Tara Moore’s cases, to back their claims.
Amidst all this, Sinner has found support from Casper Ruud. The Norwegian stated that Sinner quickly identified how the banned substance entered his system, which helped him clear his name quickly.
If you have read the documents and understand the process in this type of case, then you understand that there is no discrimination here. What Sinner has done well, in order to defend himself, is that he managed to find an explanation within 15 days after testing positive.Casper Ruud said in an interview with TV2 Norway
The 25-year-old credited Sinner for finding the reasons for his positive tests within 15 days, something many athletes would have failed to do.
There are not many athletes who manage to come up with an explanation within 15 days, but Jannik has managed it. It speaks in his favor that he quickly found out where the substance came from and that he has a reasonable explanation.Casper Ruud added
Amidst criticism for the way his doping scandal was handled, Sinner did well to stay focused on his game at the US Open. He dropped just one set en route to clinching his second Grand Slam title.
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Anirudh Velamuri
(58 Articles Published)